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Nutrition Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Nutrition Associate The Nutrition Associate within Franciscan assists patients in making their menu selections appropriate for their therapeutic diet. This position acts as a liaison between patients ...

New

Support Staff/Child Nutrition Associate Date Posted: 2/20/2026 Location: Duneland School Corporation Date Available: when filled Closing Date: always needed SUMMARY OF POSITION: A Duneland School ...

Director of Sports Nutrition

Chicago, IL · On-site

$46K - $53K/yr

Yes Duties and Responsibilities Under the direction of Assoc. AD for Health, Wellness and Sport Performance, this position assesses and develops plans for student-athletes' nutritional needs; follows ...

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Nutrition Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$35

$67

How much do nutrition associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for nutrition associate in Chicago, IL is $35.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $66.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Nutrition Associate vs Nutritionist?

AspectNutrition AssociateNutritionist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics, or related field; certification may varyOften requires a bachelor's degree, and many are registered dietitians (RD) with additional certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health programs, or wellness centersPrivate practice, healthcare facilities, or consulting roles
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, public health organizations, and educational institutionsHealthcare, private practice, and wellness industries

The main difference between a Nutrition Associate and a Nutritionist lies in their credentials and scope of practice. Nutrition Associates often work under supervision and focus on supporting nutrition programs, while Nutritionists may have more autonomy and specialized roles, especially if registered or licensed.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a nutrition associate in a healthcare setting?

As a Nutrition Associate in a healthcare environment, your daily tasks often include preparing and delivering patient meals according to dietary guidelines, assisting with menu selections, and ensuring food safety protocols are followed. You may also interact directly with patients to gather feedback or relay dietary restrictions to the kitchen staff. Collaboration with dietitians, nurses, and food service teams is common to ensure each patient's nutritional needs are met, making strong communication skills essential. This role requires attention to detail and adaptability, as patient needs and meal plans can frequently change.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nutrition associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nutrition Associate, you need a foundational knowledge of nutrition science, food safety, and dietary guidelines, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with nutrition analysis software, inventory management systems, and food service tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help you effectively support clients and collaborate with healthcare professionals. These skills ensure accurate nutrition guidance, safe food preparation, and positive client outcomes in diverse settings.

What is a nutrition associate?

Nutrition Associates are professionals who support dietitians and nutritionists in providing nutrition services to patients or clients. They often assist with meal planning, nutrition education, and monitoring dietary needs in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, or community organizations. Their responsibilities may include preparing educational materials, helping with food service operations, and ensuring that meals meet specific dietary guidelines. Nutrition Associates typically work under the supervision of a registered dietitian or nutritionist and play a key role in promoting healthy eating habits.
What are the most commonly searched types of Nutrition jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Nutrition jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Nutrition Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Nutrition Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Nutrition Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $73,120 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Nutrition Associate

Franciscan Alliance

Crown Point, IN • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Franciscan Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 268 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

452nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Nutrition Associate

The Nutrition Associate within Franciscan assists patients in making their menu selections appropriate for their therapeutic diet. This position acts as a liaison between patients, food and nutrition, and clinical dietitians and nursing staff to provide optimum nutrition care and patient satisfaction.

Franciscan Health is a leading healthcare organization dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and promoting health and wellness in our community. Our mission is to ensure that every patient receives the highest quality of care through innovation, compassion, and excellence. With 11 ministries and access points across Indiana and Illinois, Franciscan Health is one of the largest Catholic health care systems in the Midwest. Franciscan Health takes pride in hiring coworkers who provide compassionate, comprehensive care for our patients and the communities we serve.

What You Can Expect:

  • Assist with ordering, preparation, and delivery of meals, nourishments, snacks, and supplies to patients, nursing units, and kitchen.
  • Check menus and trays for accuracy.
  • Document food allergies, special needs, and likes and dislikes.
  • Gather, label, and deliver tube-feeding products and nourishments to nursing units, as ordered.
  • Interact with patients and obtain meal selections appropriate for their therapeutic diet.
  • Participate in performance improvement and quality control initiatives.
  • Communicate with nursing staff and clinical dietitians regarding patient nutritional care requirements, such as diet education, and poor or insufficient nourishment.
  • Understand diet order restrictions and offer appropriate choices to patients.
  • Verify patient information prior to delivering trays.

Qualifications:

  • Preferred High School Diploma/GED
  • 1 year Healthcare experience, food service experience or diet office experience Preferred
  • Food Handler Certification - ServSafe In Illinois
  • Food Handler Certification - ServSafe Indiana

Travel is required: Never or Rarely

Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of Franciscan Alliance to provide equal employment to its employees and qualified applicants for employment as otherwise required by an applicable local, state or Federal law. Franciscan Alliance reserves a Right of Conscience objection in the event local, state or Federal ordinances that violate its values and the free exercise of its religious rights. Franciscan Alliance is committed to equal employment opportunity.

Franciscan provides eligible employees with comprehensive benefit offerings. Find an overview on the benefit section of our career site.


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